“ Bows and arrows were sufficient for centuries to stain the earth with blood. Powder is but a thing of yesterday, and war is as old as the human race—unhappily. ”
Jules Verne, The Mysterious Island (1874). copy citation
| Author | Jules Verne |
|---|---|
| Source | The Mysterious Island |
| Topic | weapons war |
| Date | 1874 |
| Language | English |
| Reference | |
| Note | Translated by William Henry Giles Kingston |
| Weblink | http://www.gutenberg.org/files/1268/1268-h/1268-h.htm |
Context
“«Perhaps,» replied the engineer, «but we will begin by first manufacturing some bows and arrows, and I don't doubt that you will become as clever in the use of them as the Australian hunters.»
«Bows and arrows!» said Pencroft scornfully. «That's all very well for children!»
«Don't be proud, friend Pencroft,» replied the reporter. «Bows and arrows were sufficient for centuries to stain the earth with blood. Powder is but a thing of yesterday, and war is as old as the human race—unhappily.»
«Faith, that's true, Mr. Spilett,» replied the sailor, «and I always speak too quickly. You must excuse me!»
Meanwhile, Herbert constant to his favorite science, Natural History, reverted to the kangaroos, saying,—” source
«Bows and arrows!» said Pencroft scornfully. «That's all very well for children!»
«Don't be proud, friend Pencroft,» replied the reporter. «Bows and arrows were sufficient for centuries to stain the earth with blood. Powder is but a thing of yesterday, and war is as old as the human race—unhappily.»
«Faith, that's true, Mr. Spilett,» replied the sailor, «and I always speak too quickly. You must excuse me!»
Meanwhile, Herbert constant to his favorite science, Natural History, reverted to the kangaroos, saying,—” source
Meaning and analysis
